Riddick earns All-CIAA

Published 5:14 pm Tuesday, November 19, 2019

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ELIZABETH CITY – Elizabeth City State wide receiver-kick returner Zion Riddick has been selected to the 2019 All-CIAA Football First Team.

The Ahoskie native and Hertford County High product has had an amazing year, amassing a total of 1,001 return yards for the Vikings special teams’ unit. That number is 500 more yards than any other special team’s returner in the conference.

“I always knew he could run but when it comes to him returning kickoffs, he’s fearless and once he gets the ball the excitement begins,” said Vikings head coach Anthony Jones. “The entire team gets excited when he touches the ball because we all feel he can break it or provide us with a boost at any time. We’re glad to have him on our side.”

The sophomore speedster has been the key to the Vikings special teams’ unit and his skills showcase an all-around athlete. He finished second in the state in the long jump during his senior season of high school.

Riddick opened up the season with a 200-yard performance against Division I opponent Hampton University at Hampton, VA back in September where he made a return of 95 yards for a touchdown.

“I’ve always felt like I had to prove myself being smaller,” said Riddick. “I’ve showed that I can play at the highest level playing against big-time opponents.”